Teeth whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the methods Cosmetic dentistry popular today to improve the color of teeth. This article will provide detailed information about the teeth whitening procedure, the potential benefits and risks, as well as the popular methods today.

1. What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is the process of using oxidizing agents, usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to remove surface and internal stains from the tooth structure. This process makes the teeth brighter and whiter, improving the aesthetics of the smile.

2. Is teeth whitening good?

Teeth whitening can have many benefits if done properly:

• Improve aesthetics and confidence when smiling
• Removes stains caused by food, drink or tobacco
• Non-invasive and safe method when performed by a specialist.

However, it is important to note that teeth whitening is not the right solution for everyone and can cause some side effects such as temporary tooth sensitivity.

3. When should and should not teeth whitening be done?

Teeth whitening is recommended when:

• Teeth stained by food, drink or tobacco
• Want to improve smile aesthetics

Note that teeth whitening should be performed after other dental problems have been treated.

Teeth whitening should not be performed if:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have gum problems or untreated tooth decay
• Under 16 years old
• Have severely sensitive teeth
• Undergoing orthodontic treatment.

4. Popular teeth whitening methods today

4.1. Teeth whitening at home

Whitening at home using a bleaching gel with a lower concentration of peroxide, applied with custom-made trays or whitening strips. This process typically takes 1-2 weeks, with daily wear ranging from 30 minutes to several hours.

4.2. Teeth whitening at the clinic

In-Office Whitening performed by a professional dentist, using a bleaching gel with a higher concentration of peroxide. The process usually takes 60-90 minutes and can be combined with light or laser to enhance the effect.

5. Is teeth whitening painful?

Teeth whitening is usually painless, but some people may experience temporary sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. This usually goes away after a few days. Your dentist may suggest ways to reduce sensitivity, such as using a special toothpaste or fluoride gel.

6. Standard dental teeth whitening process

Includes 8 steps:

1. Dental check-up and cleaning
2. Take a photo of the original tooth color
3. Protect your gums with a rubber dam or protective gel.
4. Apply whitening gel to the tooth surface
5. Activate the gel with light or laser (depending on the method)
6. Repeat the process 2-3 times in one treatment session.
7. Rinse off the gel and apply fluoride to reduce sensitivity.
8. Instructions for post-treatment care.

6.1. Dental check-up and cleaning

Before starting the whitening process, your dentist will perform a general check-up of your teeth to ensure that there are no dental problems that need to be treated first. Your teeth will then be thoroughly cleaned to remove plaque and tartar, allowing the whitening gel to better penetrate the tooth surface.

6.2. Take a photo of the original tooth color

Your dentist will take a photo of your teeth to compare to the results after whitening. This will help monitor the change in tooth color and evaluate the effectiveness of the whitening process.

6.3. Protect gums with rubber dam or protective gel

To protect your gums and soft tissues in your mouth from the effects of the whitening gel, your dentist will use a rubber dam or protective gel. This helps prevent direct contact between the whitening gel and your gums, reducing the risk of irritation and infection.

6.4. Apply whitening gel to the tooth surface

A whitening gel containing active ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide is applied by your dentist to the surface of your teeth. This gel works by breaking down the molecules that cause stains, making your teeth whiter.

6.5. Activation of gel by light or laser (depending on method)

Depending on the whitening method chosen, the whitening gel can be activated with either regular light or laser. This process enhances the effectiveness of the gel, making the whitening process faster and more effective.

6.6. The process can be repeated 2-3 times in one treatment session.

To achieve optimal results, the gel application and activation process can be repeated 2-3 times in one treatment session. Each repetition usually lasts 15-20 minutes, depending on the condition of the teeth and the degree of discoloration.

6.7. Rinse the gel and apply fluoride to reduce sensitivity

After the whitening process is complete, your dentist will rinse the whitening gel off the surface of your teeth. To minimize tooth sensitivity after whitening, your dentist may apply fluoride to your teeth. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and reduce sensitivity.

6.8. Post-treatment care instructions

Finally, your dentist will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your teeth after whitening. This includes avoiding foods and drinks that may stain your teeth, using toothpaste for sensitive teeth if needed, and maintaining good oral hygiene habits to keep your teeth bright and white.

The dental standard teeth whitening process not only ensures effectiveness but also protects your oral health, helping you have a brighter and more confident smile.

7. How much does teeth whitening cost?

Teeth whitening prices can range from one to five to ten million VND, depending on the method and location. Home whitening is often cheaper than in-office whitening. However, it is important to note that the quality and safety of the service are also important factors to consider when choosing.
At Sakura Dental, prices start from 1,500,000 VND. Please see details at price list.

8. Harmful effects of incorrect teeth whitening

Teeth whitening done incorrectly can lead to some harmful effects:

1. Persistent tooth sensitivity
2. Gum irritation
3. Enamel erosion
4. Uneven teeth color
5. Damage to the dental pulp in severe cases.

To avoid these harmful effects, consult your dentist before performing teeth whitening and follow the product instructions.

In summary, teeth whitening is an effective method to improve the color of teeth, but it needs to be done properly and under the supervision of a dental professional to ensure safety and optimal effectiveness.